CDL(US:CDEVY) The Smart Investorยท2025-10-07 23:30Core Viewpoint - Sustained high interest rates have negatively impacted property developers, but with expectations of lower rates, opportunities for recovery and growth are emerging for key players in the sector [1][16]. CapitaLand Investment (CLI) - CLI operates with a fee-driven model, providing a defensive option for real estate exposure, with recurring fee income increasing by 5% YoY to S$572 million, accounting for over 50% of total revenue [2][5]. - Assets under Management grew by 17% YoY to S$117 billion, with a resilient lodging platform showing a 5% YoY increase in Revenue per Available Unit (RevPar) to S$88 [3]. - CLI's capital recycling reached S$584 million year-to-date as of 13 August 2025, and new acquisitions include properties in Australia and a data center in Singapore [4]. City Developments Limited (CDL) - CDL reported a 54% increase in volume and a 90% increase in sales value YoY for its Singapore residential segment, with 903 units sold [6]. - Despite a 24% YoY decline in revenue to S$1.04 billion, the company maintains a solid take-up rate with around 740 unsold units from a pipeline of approximately 2,260 units [7][8]. - CDL's hotel operations, contributing 43.5% of revenue, reported a 0.5% YoY increase in RevPAR to S$155.6, driven by a 1.7% increase in average room rate [9]. UOL Group (UOL) - UOL's residential segment showed strong momentum with new launches achieving high sell-through rates, such as Parktown Residence at 92% [13][14]. - The company reported high occupancy levels in office and retail segments at 96.6% and 97.3%, respectively, while hotel performance improved with average RevPAR increasing by 9.1% YoY to S$180.30 [14]. - UOL has a low net gearing ratio of 0.25 times and an interest coverage ratio of seven times, indicating a balanced debt profile with 69% of debt being fixed-rate [15]. Sector Outlook - Falling interest rates are expected to improve margins for property developers, enhancing affordability and driving residential demand [16]. - The hospitality segment is poised for recovery due to tourism rebound and reduced refinancing costs, while commercial properties and fund management platforms are likely to benefit from improved valuations and increased capital flows [17]. Investment Opportunities - CLI offers a defensive investment with earnings resilience through its capital-light model and expanding lodging platform [18]. - CDL presents a more cyclical investment opportunity with potential upside from hotel recovery and residential sales momentum [18]. - UOL provides a balanced approach with a diversified portfolio across residential, commercial, and hospitality assets, combining stability with growth potential [19].